Veterans Day is traditionally celebrated worldwide on November 11, marking the anniversary of the end of World War I. In the USA, it is a national holiday. Veterans Day is frequently confused with Memorial Day, traditionally observed on the last Monday in May. The distinction lies in the fact that Memorial Day exclusively honors fallen soldiers, while Veterans Day is a solemn day recognizing all former soldiers.
The History and Tradition of Veterans Day
The inaugural celebration of a day for military veterans was on November 11, 1919, a year after the cessation of most World War I conflicts. This initiative, led by President Woodrow Wilson, initially named the holiday Armistice Day. The day was not declared a national holiday until 1938.
Following the conclusion of World War II in 1945, war veteran Raymond Weeks from Birmingham, Alabama, proposed to dedicate November 11 November to honor all men and women who fought for their country in the war.
The proposal received the endorsement of then General and subsequent President of the United States Dwight Eisenhower. Therefore, the holiday’s purpose and name were changed to the present-day Veterans Day, beginning in 1954.
Fun Facts About Veterans Day
The red poppy is a traditional symbol of war veterans, commonly pinned to the lapel worldwide. The tradition originates from World War I when Canadian army doctor John McCrae, serving in Europe, wrote the poem In Flanders Fields in response to the pain and suffering of his comrades in combat. The poem depicts the fallen soldiers eternally resting in the poppy-covered fields surrounding Flanders, Belgium.
On Veterans Day, numerous fast-food and casual dining restaurant owners show their respect and gratitude by offering free meals to former soldiers. Restaurants like Applebee’s, Starbucks, Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, and T.G.I. Friday’s participate in this gesture.
Veterans Day parades are extremely popular in the USA. The largest Veterans Day Parade (also known as America’s Parade) has taken place in New York City since 1929, featuring over 25,000 participants and attracting an additional 750,000 spectators lining the streets.
Wreaths are placed at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia and at the Eternal Light Peace Memorial in New York City’s Madison Square Park every November 11 at precisely 11:00 a.m.
Approximately one-third of America’s homeless population comprises former military members. Unfortunately, as many as 70% of these individuals struggle with drug addiction.
Contribute with Your Question or Personal Experience